Utilizing the new Intel P55 chipset, the Maximus III Extreme is targeting the more mainstream market while the x58 platform holds its reign at the top end. That's not to say that the P55 chipset is inferior because it has many advantages and features that yields to improved communication between the chipset itself and the CPU. Rather than having the traditional Northbridge and Southbridge, there is only one chipset that communicates with the CPU through the DMI bus, analogous to the QPI on x58 motherboards. The P55 chipset supports up to 6 SATA II 3Gb/s ports, 14 USB 2.0 ports, high definition audio, Intel Matrix Storage technology, Intel Rapid Recover Technology and has the first integrated PCI Express 2.0 interface. Rather unique to ASUS's line up of P55 based motherboard, the Maximus III Extreme makes use of an NF200 chip to provide much greater bandwidth for multi PCIe card support.

iROG Intelligent multiple control at hand The iROG is a special IC which enables several ROG highlighted functions that gives users full disposal of the motherboard at any stage! This design allows advanced user control and management to be processed purely at a hardware level. iROG greatly increases fun during overclocking for PC enthusiasts and it offers system maintenance and management with more control and efficiency. USB BIOS Flashback No worry of BIOS crash anytime! USB BIOS Flashback must be the most convenient way to flash BIOS ever! It allows overclockers to try their BIOS with the simplest way one can imagine. No need to enter the BIOS or the operating system, just plug the thumb drive into the ROG Connect port & push the ROG Connect button for 2 seconds, BIOS would be automatically flashed under standby power. It´s no doubt that USB BIOS Flashback gives overclockers the ultimate convenience. Voltiminder LED Friendly reminder on Voltage Settings In the pursuit of extreme performance, overvoltage adjustment is critical but risky. Acting as the "red zone" of a tachometer, the Voltiminder LED displays the voltage status for CPU, PCH, and Memory in a intuitive colour-coded fashion. The voltiminder LED allows quick voltage monitoring for overclockers. Probelt Get all hands-on with hardware-based overclocking ProbeIt takes the guesswork out of locating the motherboard´s measurement points, identifying them clearly in the form of 5 sets of detection points so you´ll know exactly where to get quick yet accurate readings using a multitester. RC Bluetooth Overwhelm your acknowledgement with wireless overclocking experience! ROG Connect Plug and Overclock - Tweak it the hardcore way! Extreme Engine Digi+ MemOK! Bios Flashback Two BIOS ROM. Two BIOS settings. Twice the overclocking flexibility. CPU Level Up A Simple click for instant upgrade Extreme Tweaker One stop performance tuning shop COP Ex Maximum OC with confidence with burn proof protection to chipsets and GPU! Loadline Calibration Optimal power boost for extreme CPU overclocking! Onboard Switch No more shorting pins or moving jumpers ASUS Q-Connector Make connections quick and accurate Q-Fan Plus Optimized quietness and cooling for more devices!

As you can see, the Maximus III Extreme has bucket loads of unique and intuitive features that focus on safe, reliable overclocking and complete ease of use for novices. I have only included a few of the features that differentiates ASUS from its competitors but for a more comprehensive list, check out the ASUS website.

The specifications alone include everything you would ever need and more! With 10 channel audio, plenty of USB ports and the support for USB 3.0 and SATA III 6Gb/s, ASUS have gone all out to ensure that the buyer will never be disappointed or regret their choice.